Dhanteras 2023: Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanvantari Trayodashi, is a Hindu festival that marks the first day of the five-day Diwali festival. It usually falls on the 13th day of the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin (October or November).
The word “Dhanteras” is a combination of two words: “dhan,” which means money, and “teras,” which refers to the thirteenth day. On this day, people worship Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda and health and seek blessings for good health and well-being.
One of the main customs of Dhanteras is the purchasing of gold, silver or other precious metals and utensils, as it is believed to bring prosperity and good luck. People clean and decorate their homes, light lamps and make intricate rangoli designs to welcome wealth and happiness.
The day is considered auspicious for starting new ventures, purchasing valuable items and performing rituals to invoke prosperity. Many people light lamps on the evening of Dhanteras and worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. Overall, Dhanteras sets the festive mood for Diwali, the festival of lights, coming shortly after.
Importance of Dhanteras
Dhanteras holds significant cultural and spiritual significance in Hindu traditions. Here are some key aspects of its importance:
Wealth and prosperity
Dhanteras is associated with the worship of wealth and prosperity. It is believed that buying gold, silver or other valuable items on this day symbolizes welcoming prosperity and good fortune in one’s life.
Lord Dhanvantari
Lord Dhanvantari, the god of Ayurveda (traditional medicine) is also worshiped on Dhanteras. People seek his blessings for good health and prosperity.
Symbolizing the beginning of Diwali
Dhanteras marks the beginning of the Diwali festival, a five-day festival of lights. It creates a positive and festive atmosphere as people start preparing for the main Diwali celebrations.
Cleaning and decorating
There is a tradition of cleaning and decorating houses on Dhanteras. Its purpose is to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, in a clean and beautifully decorated place.
Custom of buying precious metals
Buying gold, silver or utensils on Dhanteras brings prosperity and is considered an auspicious investment. On this day many people buy new items for their homes.
Puja and rituals
People perform traditional puja (prayers), light lamps, offer flowers and organize special ceremonies to seek blessings for wealth, health and overall happiness on Dhanteras.
Spiritual significance
Beyond the physical aspect, Dhanteras has spiritual significance. It encourages individuals to reflect on their values, express gratitude for the abundance in their lives, and ask for blessings for a prosperous future.
In short, Dhanteras is a day of significance that blends physical and spiritual aspects, emphasizing the importance of wealth, health and the pursuit of a positive and prosperous life.